Oldham residents object to 68 affordable homes in Failsworth green belt

Plans for 68 affordable homes in Failsworth have sparked fierce opposition from residents who fear the loss of green belt land and the character of their neighbourhood. The development, proposed for land off Failsworth Road near Woodhouses village, would include a mix of social rent and shared ownership properties, but locals say it would destroy a cherished open space.

Emery Planning, acting for Redwaters Estates, submitted the application in February, arguing the development would help address Oldham's housing crisis. The planning statement claims the site qualifies as 'grey belt'-land that doesn't serve green belt purposes-and would represent just a 0.7% increase to Failsworth's size.

However, over 32 objections have flooded in from residents, many living on Argyll Park Road which backs onto the proposed site. They warn of increased traffic, noise, and the loss of a peaceful area they've enjoyed for years. One resident said: 'If this plan goes ahead it could result in time the whole field will be used for houses and another beautiful area will be lost forever, very sad.

The Friends of Daisy Nook Facebook group reports that M35 postcode residents have already held a meeting to coordinate their objections. With the application validated on March 6, the battle over this green belt land is set to intensify as the council weighs the need for affordable housing against residents' concerns about their quality of life.